Alabama


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Map obtained from http://www.nationatlas.gov

About Alabama



The etymology of the word or name, Alabama, has evoked much discussion. It was the name of an Indian tribe (Alabama, Albama, Alebamon, Alibama, Alibamou, Alibamon, Alabamu, and Allibamou). Alabama possibly means "Here We Rest", but it could also mean "thicket clearers", Alabama being a compound of Alba meaning "a thick or mass vegetation," and amo meaning "to clear, to collect, to gather up." Alabama became the 22nd state in 1819. From the early 19th century, Alabama's economy was dominated by cotton. However, although it is still an important crop, such as corn, peanuts, soybeans have taken over much of the former cotton lands. Particularly in the second half of the 20th century, a comparatively rapid industrialization set in. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) program of hydroelectric power production, begun in the 1930s, fostered the growth of giant fertilizer, munitions, and aluminum industries. Alabama, known as "Heart of Dixie" occupies a central place in the history of the South. Montgomery, the Alabama capital, served as the first Confederate Capital during the Civil War. Tourists can visit Alabama's historic homes and gardens, reminiscent of the Old South. Also popular are the resorts and beaches on Dauphin Island, the Gulf Shore and Mobile Bay.

Source: http://usa.usembassy.de/.htm

Symbols of Alabama




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State Flag

Crimson St. Andrew's cross on a white field, patterned after the Confederate Battle Flag, and adopted in 1895. The bars forming the cross must not be less than six inches broad and must extend diagonally across the flag from side to side.



Source: http://www.50states.com/flag/ .htm


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State seal

State Facts


Capital City: Montgomery

Nickname: Heart of Dixie / Cotton State

Motto: Audemus Jura Nostra Defendere


(We Dare Defend Our Rights)

Statehood: December 14, 1819 (22nd)

Land Area: 50,750 sq. mi., 28th largest

State Bird: Yellowhammer


State Flower: Camellia

State Tree: Southern Pine (pinus palustris)

State Song: Alabama


Source: http://bensguide.gpo.gov/3-5/state/

Population and Cities



Largest City: Birmingham
Second Largest City: Montgomery
Persons per square mile: 88
Population: 4,661,900

Source:http://www.census.gov/schools/facts/Created by Emilee Bean